Limpopo MEC for Transport and Community Safety, Violet Mathye, has welcomed renewed efforts by two taxi associations to resolve their differences through dialogue, describing the development as an important step towards restoring stability in the province’s public transport sector.
Mathye met with representatives of the Jane Furse/Polokwane Taxi Association and the Masemola Taxi Association at Phamoko Towers in Polokwane on Friday, where the parties reflected on progress made since their initial engagement with the department two months ago.
The two associations had approached the MEC seeking intervention after disputes threatened to disrupt operations. Instead of imposing an immediate solution, Mathye encouraged both parties to return to the negotiating table and work together to find common ground.
Speaking after Friday’s meeting, the MEC expressed satisfaction with the progress achieved.
“Today we did not witness conflict. We witnessed dialogue and maturity. Where people are willing to talk, there is always a way forward,” she said.
Mathye reiterated that peaceful engagement remains the most effective way to address challenges within the taxi industry, noting that cooperation between operators is essential to ensuring reliable and safe public transport services for commuters.
The Department of Transport and Community Safety has pledged to continue supporting both associations as discussions continue, with the aim of finding lasting solutions that benefit both taxi operators and the travelling public.
The department said it remains committed to facilitating constructive engagement until all outstanding issues are resolved, while ensuring that commuter safety and the stability of public transport remain top priorities.
Friday’s meeting marks another positive step in ongoing efforts to promote peace and cooperation within Limpopo’s taxi industry, with the department keeping its doors open for continued dialogue between all stakeholders.
